When it comes to rooftop pipe supports, building owners need to think about the long term. All too often during a roofing or re-roofing project, support for the rooftop pipes are not considered until deep into the project. Quick fix options may seem like an economical solution, but may cost building owners dearly in the long run.

The ProblemFor facilities that have the typical few, small (i.e. less than 5-in. diameter) rooftop pipes, namely HVAC conduit lines, industrial fluid lines, and the like, the piping is frequently overlooked during the planning stages of the project.

Buildings expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall. Commercial roofs can be particularly hot as black and dark surfaces can easily reach 180°F or higher and even white and light colored roofs can reach 120°F. Just as building components expand and contract, so too will the pipes and conduit on the roof, moving as they expand and contract. Pipe movement by itself is not an issue, as long as the pipe supports used are designed to accommodate the movement.

The SolutionContractors and DIYers alike know that having the right tool for the job makes all the difference. The same is true for having the right pipe supports. One simple, yet effective solution is the line of PipeGuard Pipe Supports from OMG Roofing Products. PipeGuard Pipe Supports from OMG Roofing Products are an effective solution and alternative to using wooden supports. PipeGuard products are typically made of heavy-duty EPDM rubber and designed to accommodate pipe expansion and contraction. Their triangular shape is designed to shed water, and because they are made of rubber, there’s nothing to break down over time that could potentially cause damage to the roof cover. Finally, one-piece PipeGuard Pipe Supports can be installed without tools, so they are fast and efficient from a labor perspective. Last, but not least, PipeGuard Pipe Supports are available in a host of sizes and will accommodate ½-inch to 5-inch pipes.

When it comes to your roof, what’s out of sight should not be out of mind. Using the right product to do the job may cost a few dollars more up front, but can save you thousands in repairs and maintenance costs in the long run.